Health Library

An Agent’s Role for Durable Power of Attorney

It’s impossible to know which medical treatment choices you might face in the future. What if you aren't able to make these decisions for yourself? A durable power of attorney for health care lets you name an agent to carry out your wishes. This happens only if you can’t express your wishes yourself.

An Agent’s Duty

Your agent’s duty is to see that your wishes are followed.

If your wishes aren’t known, your agent should try to decide what you want.

Your agent’s choices come before anyone else’s wishes for you.

Your agent has no control over your money. Your agent also can’t be made to pay your bills.

Find Out What Your Agent Can Do

Restrictions on what an agent can and can’t do vary by state. Check your state laws. In most states your agent can:

Choose or refuse life-sustaining and other medical treatment on your behalf.

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